THE Committee of Experts rebel member Njoki Ndung'u steered clear of the launch of the draft attended by ministers, diplomats, MPs and civil society leaders.

Ndung'u, who has in the past boycotted key functions, decided not to be part of the launch beamed live from KICC and attended by thousands of enthusiastic Kenyans.

Chairman Nzamba Kitonga, who introduced all the commissioners, said Ndung'u was abroad and could not have made it to the event.

Committee members Otiende Amollo and vice chair Atsango Chesoni took centre stage with their impressive speeches exhorting Kenyans to see sense and accept the draft. "Our work has been analytical and consultative. The ball is now on your court as Kenyans. We assure you that the process is long and thorough enough to address all the fears and what may now appear contentious," Amollo said.

In the promise to give Kenya a new constitution, the launch also brought together PM Raila Odinga, James Orengo and former Constitution of Kenya Review Commissioner Kavetsa Adagala.